Celebrating Neurodiversity Week: Open to all Roller Derby intake day

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Birmingham Roller Derby is proud to be a diverse and inclusive league welcoming people of all genders, backgrounds, identities and abilities.

Whether you want to skate, officiate, volunteer or just find a new community - there’s a place for you here.

In celebration of Neurodiversity Week, we are holding a new skater intake day to encourage those who identify as neurodiverse to explore roller derby as a sport.

You must be 18+ to attend.

All genders are welcome learn to skate through the Academy, complete their minimum skills and take part in non-contact drills.

All genders are welcome to participate as Skating Officials, Non-Skating Officials, or Volunteers.

However, participation as a full contact skater is subject to the Womens Flat Track Roller Derby Gender Policy (see below)

E-mail: recruit@birminghamrollerderby.co.uk to sign up!

FAQ

I don't know how to skate!

That's ok! You don't need any prior experience. We'll teach you the basics of roller skating on quad skates including stance, falling and stopping safely.

I don't own any skates/pads!

Not to worry! We can loan you skates and safety equipment including protective pads - you just need to book in advance so we know what sizes to bring.

What do I wear?

Something light and comfortable - gym/leisure wear such as leggings/shorts/t-shirt/vest or whatever you can move easily in. Try to avoid stiff heavy clothing like jeans or anything flowy that could be a hazard.

What do I need to bring?

Just yourself, some water and maybe a snack if needed! There may be whistles being blown and roller derby can get a bit noisy so if you're sensitive to sound, we recommend loop earplugs or similar.

I'm nervous about coming!

We understand - doing something new and meeting new people is scary. If you want to bring a friend along for support, that's fine! We're a friendly, diverse bunch and we'll do our best to make you feel welcome and safe.

Gender Policy

All genders are welcome learn to skate through the Academy, complete their minimum skills and take part in non-contact drills.

All genders are welcome to participate as Skating Officials, Non-Skating Officials, or Volunteers.

As we are affiliated with WFTDA, participation as a full contact skater is subject to the Womens Flat Track Roller Derby Gender Policy which states;

"Any individual of a Marginalized Gender, regardless of presentation or the gender they were assigned at birth, is welcomed and encouraged to participate in the WFTDA in any capacity, including skating on a WFTDA charter."

https://resources.wftda.org/.../wftda-statement-about.../

What is neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is the term for when someone's brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is considered "typical". Some neurodivergent conditions include:

Dyslexia

Dyspraxia (also called Developmental Coordination Disorder, or DCD)

Dyscalculia

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)

OCD

Tourette's/Tic disorders

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by organisations and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

Resources

https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversityinsport/

https://www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk/

https://adhduk.co.uk/

https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/.../neurodiversi.../dyspraxia

E-mail: recruit@birminghamrollerderby.co.uk to sign up!